Border workers across Canadian ports of entry have overwhelmingly voted in favor of a strike mandate, potentially leading to disruptions in the flow of goods, services, and people, according to their union, the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC).
Members of PSAC, which represents border officers at airports, land and marine crossings, and commercial entry points, voted 96 percent in favor of the strike mandate. This vote clears the path for a possible strike over the summer, with mediation sessions scheduled to begin on June 3.
The union has cited the lack of an updated collective agreement for two years and negotiations at an impasse as reasons for the strike mandate. Key demands include fair wages aligned with other law enforcement workers in Canada, equitable retirement options, and flexible online and remote work options.
In response, the federal government has expressed readiness to return to the bargaining table at any time and emphasized its commitment to reaching a responsible and competitive agreement. It labeled a possible strike as unnecessary and stated its willingness to negotiate in good faith.
The last significant labor action by border workers in 2021 led to substantial disruptions, including long lines and delays at entry points across the country.